Mississippi State defensive end Preston Smith would add some major size to the Cowboys' pass rush

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In a draft class rich with defensive linemen, and the Cowboys having some obvious needs in that area, many experts believe Dallas will be looking at the defensive front when they go on the clock with the 27th overall pick in April’s draft.

One such expert, ESPN draft guru Mel Kiper, believes they might find their man in Mississippi State defensive end Preston Smith.

“I project him in the first round right now,” Kiper said, via the Dallas Morning News. “You can’t be as productive as he was in the SEC, have a great [scouting combine] workout--his numbers across the board were outstanding--and not go in the first round in this league right now. You have the size with him, the ability, and you have the production. You put it all together and he’s a first round pick.”

Last year, the Cowboys couldn’t resist guard Zack Martin in the first round, and waited until the second to trade up for Boise State defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence. Jerry Jones said recently it’s certainly possible that the team will go after an offensive lineman yet again this year, but Kiper expects them to have an eye on Smith.

“The Cowboys can get an interior guy or they can get an outside presence,” Kiper said. “They can get a pass rusher in this draft, it just depends upon who they feel is best suited for what they do. I would think Preston Smith would be intriguing at that point.”

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